Hughton again under pressure at Newcastle

The Sunday Express says Hughton remains vulnerable despite steering the Geordies back into the Premier League following their relegation in May 2009 and causing a stir this season with high profile wins at Arsenal and Everton plus thumping St James’ Park victories against neighbours Sunderland and Aston Villa.

He is one of the division’s lowest paid bosses and talks over a new contract - his current expires at the end of the season - have still to start.

His efforts to bring in a new No 2 to replace Colin Calderwood, who left to become Hibernian’s new boss, have stalled because the club are keen on him promoting from within. It’s also believed there are concerns about the influence certain senior players appear to have on their manager.

Highly-placed club sources have suggested that Hughton even changed his line-up at Bolton last weekend after representations from experienced players.